

Hyderabad: Thirty-two people sustained eye injuries while bursting firecrackers during Diwali celebrations and sought treatment at the state-run Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital in Hyderabad, officials said on Sunday (November 8). One of the injured patients has completely lost vision in his right eye.
Six patients, including four children, have been admitted to the hospital, Resident Medical Officer Dr Ibrahim said. The remaining 26 were given medication and advised to return for follow-up care. Treatment is continuing for the admitted patients, he said.
Ahead of Diwali, the 550-bed hospital in Mehdipatnam had made arrangements to handle firecracker-related injuries. It had reserved 20 beds for such cases and kept teams of doctors, nurses, support staff and ambulance drivers on standby.
Ambulances were also stationed in various districts to transport emergency patients to Hyderabad for treatment.
Doctors had cautioned people against careless handling of firecrackers, warning that accidents could cause burns and permanent eye damage. They advised families to keep water and basic first-aid supplies ready during celebrations and seek immediate medical attention in case of eye injuries.